4 Best Sights in Cape Town, South Africa

A great way to get acquainted with Table Mountain and all its moods is to hike part of the Hoerikwaggo Trail, which opened in 2006. The trail follows the spine of the mountains that run the length of the peninsula; there are four camps though only Slangkop and Smitswinkel are currently open and parts of the trail are closed due to fire damage and land disputes. Multiple-day, guided hikes can be arranged with an operator like Walks in Africa ( www.walksinafrica.co.uk/hoerikwaggo-trail/).

The prominent peak to the right of Table Mountain is Lion's Head, a favorite hiking spot for locals. The hike takes about 1½ hours (each way), with 360-degree views of the city unfolding as you spiral up the "lion" as well as from the top. The trail is gorgeous and well marked; unfortunately its charms have made it so popular that on nice days you can find yourself in a hiker-jam. That said, it's a great hike, and though easier than climbing Table Mountain, the last quarter will earn you a post-hike beer or malva pudding (a baked sponge cake sauced with orange juice, apricot jam, and vinegar). As always, don't hike alone, and keep alert, especially as sunset approaches. For those less inclined to sweat, Signal Hill is the smaller flat-topped hill extending from the northern lower slopes of Lion's Head, also sometimes called the "Lion's Rump." Once the location for signal flags communicating weather warnings to ships visiting the bay, Signal Hill is also the home of the Noon Gun, still operated by the South African Navy and South African Astronomical Observatory. Both Lion's Head and Signal Hill are accessed by Signal Hill Road, which ends at the Signal Hill parking lot. The lot has spectacular views of Sea Point and Table Bay.  Be careful especially after hours and/or if it's deserted. There have been incidents of violent crime.

This is a slick operation. Two large, wheelchair-friendly revolving cars that provide spectacular views take three to five minutes to reach the summit. The Lower Cable Station lies on the slope of Table Mountain near its western end. Save your walking energy for the mountain, and take a taxi or MyCiti bus to get to the station.

Operating times vary from month to month according to season, daylight hours, and weather. To avoid disappointment, phone ahead for exact times. In the ever-expanding peak season (December–April), if you arrive at 10 am you could wait for an hour, so it's best to book online beforehand. Several tour operators also include a trip up the mountain in their schedules.  Lines to purchase tickets for the cable car can be crazy in peak/high season, so book online to speed things up. 

The cable car stops operating in strong wind conditions (common in summer), so be sure to factor in that possibility, especially if relying on it to get back down after a tiring hike up and take note of the last one down's time (changes but can be as early as 4 pm).

This is a very popular walking road for locals, especially when the weather is fine and windless, as it's perfectly flat with fabulous views over the City Bowl and Table Bay. The road crosses the northern side of Table Mountain before ending at Devil's Peak, providing access to the lower cable station, as well as trailheads for Platteklip Gorge (easiest ascent of Table Mountain) and Devil's Peak. After the Devil's Peak trailhead, the road is restricted to foot traffic and bicycles. As always, take the usual precautions about walking in groups, sticking to the path, and staying alert.